Ramsey wants RVP stay

Aaron Ramsey believes Arsenal are more than capable of challenging for major honours next season, providing they can keep hold of their sought-after striker, Robin van Persie.

The Dutchman inspired Arsene Wenger's side to a third-placed finish last season, notching 30 league goals in the process, and Ramsey and his teammates accept that it is crucial that the club captain's long-term future is secured.

It has been widely reported that the prolific front-man could leave the Emirates Stadium this summer in search of silverware, but Ramsey is adamant that the club's ambitions match Van Persie's, and he believes he's the man to fire Arsenal to success.

Speaking to the Sun on Sunday, Ramsey said: "It's important we keep Robin if we seriously want to be title contenders.

"He has proven this season what his value is to the team with the goals he has scored. It's important to keep those sort of players at the club.

"He was our top goal-scorer, won the Golden Boot and the Player of the Year awards, so any team would want to keep him. Arsenal are no different."

Despite being held in the highest regard by all in north London, Van Persie has kept his cards close to his chest on where his future lies.

"He hasn't given any of the other lads any indications on what he is going to do," added Ramsey. "Nothing has been said. But, hopefully, he will stay."

Van Persie's scintillating form this season has been in stark contrast to Ramsey, who has at times failed to produce the kinds of performances that have come to be expected of the Welshman.

The 21-year-old midfielder is the first to admit that he endured a difficult campaign, but remains confident that he will rediscover his best form next season, as he continues his return to peak fitness after suffering a horrific leg injury back in 2010.

Ramsey said: "To ask me to play to a high standard week in, week out, in the Premier League when you think of the pace that goes with it, was very physically demanding."

The man Arsenal signed for £5million from Cardiff City back in 2008, featured in no fewer than 49 games for club and country this season, and Ramsey accepts that the season took its toll.

"People do forget how long I was out of the game and what happened. It's been my first full season. Overall, I am happy with the way things have gone.

"From where I was with the injury I think I've done pretty well.

"It was a long season and it was something my body has not been used to. It was quite obvious I would get tired towards the end.

"Although I've been pretty pleased, there is still a lot more to come. I know that. But this season has been a good stepping stone for me."

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